Last Updated: February 25, 2026 — Reviewed by Brian Hayes, Licensed Master Plumber
You may not often think about it, but the difference between hard and soft water in your home can really affect your daily life. Soft water helps you avoid build-ups of scale in your pipes, improve the effectiveness of detergent and soap, and keep your water-using appliances working for a longer time. As you can expect, hard water has the opposite effects.
While water softeners can help reduce the hardness of your water, you’d really do better with soft water at home. Hard water, after all, is among the most common complaints of homeowners when it comes to their water at home. But how do you know if you have hard water? Can you do a test to check it? Yes, you can.
SOAPSUDS TEST
This is a relatively easy test you can do to see if you have hard water at home. You just need to get a clean plastic or glass bottle that has a tight-fitting cap. Fill about 1/3 of the bottle with water from the faucet. Next, add 10 drops of pure liquid soap or dishwashing liquid. Shake the bottle for 10 seconds or more. Place the bottle on a flat surface and observe.
If you notice that the soapy solution foams up fast and creates lots of suds, and you have clear water below those suds, you have fairly soft water. But if the solution just creates a shallow layer of suds and the water gets cloudy, you have hard water.
DIY TEST KIT
You can also purchase home test kits that are specifically for water quality testing. You can find them in most hardware and home improvement shops, as well as in many online stores. Make sure that you do your research and buy a kit that is made by a reputable manufacturer.
You can do a simple wet-strip test, like a test done for spa or pool water. Fill a glass with tap water and completely immerse the test strip in that water. Check the result with what’s indicated in the chart that came with your kit. This should give you an idea as to how hard your water is.
These two simple tests can help you determine whether you have hard or soft water at home. if you find out that you have hard water at home, you should consider getting water softeners for your home. Contact Hayes Plumbing today and we’ll have one of our experts explain to you why you’d want soft water in your house!
Additional Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I call a plumber for hard water solution?
You should call a licensed plumber for hard water solution when the issue persists after basic troubleshooting, involves water pressure changes, or requires access to pipes behind walls. Hayes Plumbing serves Oshawa, Ajax, Whitby, Clarington, and Pickering.
How much does hard water solution cost in Durham Region?
The cost of hard water solution in Durham Region depends on the complexity of the job and parts required. Hayes Plumbing provides upfront pricing before beginning any work so there are no surprises.
Should I try DIY or hire a professional for hard water solution?
While minor issues can sometimes be addressed with DIY methods, hard water solution often requires a licensed plumber to ensure the work meets Ontario plumbing code. Hayes Plumbing is fully licensed, WSIB certified, and BBB accredited.
Need help with plumbing repairs or installations? Hayes Plumbing & Bathroom Renovations serves Oshawa, Ajax, Whitby, Clarington, and Pickering. Contact us or call (905) 576-3043 for a free estimate.
